Durban’s tourism sector experienced a “remarkable” upswing during the 2024/25 festive season, with hotel occupancy rates between 80% and 100%.
This is according to preliminary data from Durban Tourism, which shows a rise in visitor numbers, says Durban Tourism Deputy Head, Winile Mntungwa. She attributes this growth to key initiatives, including the reopening of beaches, targeted Durban Tourism activations, improved safety measures, and an efficient park-and-ride system introduced this festive season. “The positive response to these efforts underscores the success of the City’s revitalisation strategies in driving sustained tourism growth.”
Bolstered safety measures included deploying 500 Metro Police officers, expanding CCTV surveillance, and collaborating with the Urban Improvement Precinct to enhance security in high-footfall areas such as Florida Road. Additionally, consistent beach water quality monitoring was conducted to ensure safer coastal conditions for visitors.
Collaborative efforts bearing fruit
Post-COVID, the city has grappled with multiple challenges, including infrastructure damage from flooding and ongoing beach closures due to sewage pollution. However, stakeholders say that recent investments in safety measures and infrastructure development have contributed to growing visitor confidence. This includes a renewed commitment from Southern Sun, which plans to invest in the revitalisation strategies of eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality and Durban Tourism in 2025.
Southern Sun’s R1 billion (€52 million) commitment to redevelop flagship hotels along Durban’s waterfront, which comes in conjunction with formalised marketing partnerships with Durban Tourism, is already having an impact on repairing the city’s reputation, says Mntungwa. “Collaborations with leading hospitality brands, including Southern Sun Media Tours, showcased Durban’s diverse attractions, fostering greater confidence among potential visitors.”
“Durban’s proactive approach to overcoming challenges and addressing negative media perceptions has been pivotal in restoring visitor confidence." She credits support from the Presidency’s eThekwini Working Group, which has played a key role in revitalising Durban’s tourism industry through targeted marketing campaigns," Mntungwa said.
The Tourism Takes the Lead Roadshow, themed “Exploring Durban’s Travel Adventures Together”, showcased Durban’s readiness to welcome visitors, with support from Southern Sun, City Lodge, South African Tourism, KZN Tourism and Film Authority, Trade and Investment KZN, and FEDHASA.
Sustained momentum
Durban’s 2024/25 cruise season, which kicked off with the arrival of MSC Euribia (the largest vessel to dock on South African shores) in November, will also play an important role in bolstering tourism.
The recently opened MSC Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal attracted 243 000 international visitors during the previous 2023/24 season. “This season is poised for even greater success with more vessels expected, further strengthening Durban’s position as a premier cruise destination,” Mntungwa said.
“Guests provided overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding their visits to Durban,” Ruzandri Stoltz, Marketing Manager at aha Hotels & Lodges, told Tourism Update. “They appreciated the enhanced safety, cleaner public spaces, and the range of activities available. Many noted the improved hospitality experiences and expressed their delight in seeing the city making a concerted effort to improve its infrastructure and overall environment.”
“Our hopes for Durban in 2025 include continued enhancements in infrastructure, increased efforts toward sustainability, and the development of new attractions that highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, we hope to see ongoing collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure that Durban remains a top choice for both domestic and international travellers,” said Stoltz.
